Author: Helen Christie

For those who occasionally hang heavy objects on the wall: photos, shelves, mirrors – a special tool stud finder is needed. After some time spent on researching similar instruments, we compiled our comparison list.

The most simple and inexpensive in our review was a stud locator Diamond Resource 10129-ST. Inside this device is a powerful neodymium magnet that can detect a metal beam in the wall or metal screws. When the facility finds metal in the wall, you will hear a tapping. This will serve as a signal where you need to put a mark on the wall. The plus of this device is that its operation does not require batteries. This tool cost 11$.

Diamond Resource 10129-ST Stud Thud Magnetic

Another tool in this stud finder reviews is Zircon m40-FFP. It is also a very popular model and works fine for its price. This device perfectly finds not only beams in the wall, but also small nails. This is possible thanks to a special pinner mode. In this mode tool perfect detect small nails up to 4 inches deep. To operate the device requires a 9V battery, which is usually included in the kit. Price around 30$.

Third tool which I want to introduce to you is Franklin ProSensor 710. A very interesting model that will allow you to locate a stud in the wall in one motion and accurately enough. On stud finder placed 13 LEDs horizontally. When you are navigating the wall with a horizontal movement, the device will show you where the beam in the wall is on, including some LEDs. The tool works so simply that even a housewife can understand it. This stud finder has been sold since 2011 and has many positive reviews. In 2017 this cool tool cost 27$ that is very good, because previous price was almost 50$.

Kitchen backsplash is the most important element of the kitchen decor. It is responsible not only for beauty. It should be practical, resistant to temperature changes. What material should I choose for facing? Every housewife knows that without a kitchen backsplash – just nowhere. The only question is that not everyone knows exactly how it should be. Some immediately buy on the beauty of this or that material, not thinking about its properties, while others take certain material by ignorance.

The simplest solution: plastic panels

The most budgetary and simple material are MFD and plastic panels matched to the color of the main furniture. I will not talk about cheap analogs, but here the panels from quality manufacturers always look dignified and add the kitchen set completeness.

For example, panels that simulate the vertical layout of the boards. These are often used in the design of the kitchen in a classic style.

You can also use plastic that mimics the metal panel. It is desirable without seams – a single panel in the entire width of the desktop. This will be a completely modern and practical solution.

The option with panels can be used in a modern and minimalistic interior.

plastic panels

Actual and universal: artificial stone

It is always important to use for the kitchen backsplash the same material that is used in the coating of the countertop. For example, an artificial stone.

The color range of this material is quite large. Such a surface is mounted at the very last moment, when the kitchen furniture is already assembled (as the exact dimensions of the table and walls are required for the manufacture of the backsplash ), which is very convenient.

As for the operation, the artificial stone is easy to clean and resistant to wear. By the way, if desired, this material can be given any shape, for example, rounded backsplash over the hob.

artificial stone

Effectively and unusually: glass

For the backsplash, you can use even glass – transparent or with a pattern printed on it. In the second version, a special glass is used, on the reverse side of which is a drawing. It is made in such a way that the pattern will always be clear and will not deteriorate under any circumstances.

There are many varieties of this material: matte, colored, transparent. Under transparent, by the way, you can fix your favorite family photos or colorful wallpaper from the collection you adore. It all depends on the style of the interior and on what task it is – to highlight this place or vice versa, to make it as neutral as possible.

However, it should be remembered that on the glass will be visible divorce, you will have to carefully monitor the purity of such a backsplash.

glass backsplash

Tribute to tradition: mosaic and tile

Facing the kitchen with tiles is a traditional version of the design of the backsplash. Of course, its popularity is understandable. It is practical and durable, heat-resistant, but all this requires time-consuming installation.

If this fact does not frighten you, then you can stop your choice on an interesting solution – photo printing on the tile. This will become a certain highlight of your interior.

In addition, you can use a mosaic: glass, stone or a combination of these materials. That’s where the space for inspiration! A huge number of colors and textures, including metal and mirror mosaic, for any style in the interior.

The only thing that is worth remembering is leaving. It is necessary to pay special attention to the joints between the tiles, they have to be washed more thoroughly than the rest of the surface.

mosaic and tile

Fashion trend: brick and concrete

Concrete has been a very fashionable material lately. Why not use it for an backsplash in a modern kitchen interior? You can create an imitation of concrete using decorative plaster, or leave the concrete wall, having previously cleaned it.

In this case, it is necessary to protect the backsplash from dirt and water, covered with a special varnish. If properly protected, you can also leave the brickwork on the wall. And you can use a decorative stone for a brick, it will look more solid and even.

brick and concrete

For hi-tech lovers: a metal backsplash

Metal is good for kitchens in modern and high-tech styles, although with skillful use it can play a winning part in the classical direction. This material is strong, heat-resistant, practical, reliable and unpretentious in operation. It can be safely combined with glass and wood.